The most striking item on the agenda involved the application from Schnor and Melle, who sought approval for the reconstruction of their property at 10-24 58 Lake Valley Road, which had suffered extensive fire damage. Jason Suel, the attorney representing the applicants, detailed the traumatic experience of the family and their journey over the past two years dealing with insurance claims and planning the reconstruction. The property, located in an Open Space Zone (OSG), presented unique challenges due to its lot size, which is smaller than the surrounding lots zoned for three-acre minimums.

Suel emphasized the necessity of obtaining variances, particularly for setbacks, due to the property’s dimensions. Despite needing these variances, the proposal complies with building and lot coverage regulations, with the applicant maintaining compliance with impervious surface limits. The architect, Frank Troya, presented detailed site plans and described the existing conditions and the proposed additions, which would respect the front setbacks as much as possible. Troya highlighted that the renovation would involve a facelift of the existing structure rather than a complete rebuild, utilizing the existing foundation and retaining features like the garage and driveway.

During the discussion, board members raised questions about the extent of the fire damage and the classification of the project as an expansion of a pre-existing non-conforming structure. The architect clarified that the project would be considered new construction if more than 41% of the structure remained after demolition. Public commentary included safety concerns about a fence line at the intersection of Lake Valley Road and Lake Road, leading to an agreement to adjust the fence height for better visibility. The professional planner, Matthew Flynn, supported the application by comparing it to surrounding zones and emphasizing that the proposal met both the C1 hardship and C2 benefits tests. The board unanimously approved the application, with conditions to relocate HVAC units and adjust the fence.

Another item involved Christine and Chris Walton, who sought a variance to add a play area in their backyard and address the legality of two existing sheds on their property. The property, purchased in 2019, has a unique configuration resulting in two front yards, complicating the compliance with setback requirements. The proposed play area includes a swing set for their two-year-old daughter and is situated approximately two feet from a six-and-a-half-foot tall fence.

The couple also requested a variance for the sheds, one of which had been moved to comply with a certificate of continued occupancy stipulation but still did not meet the required five-foot distance from the property line. Public comment from a neighbor supported the Waltons, noting their significant investment in upgrading the property. The board members expressed consensus on the importance of supporting families and approved the variance application.

In addition to these applications, the council addressed a request from Mount Kemmel Associates for a one-year extension of their site plan approval. The developer had faced delays in obtaining necessary approvals, and the board was reminded of their obligation to grant extensions if the developer was pursuing required permits. The motion to approve the extension was passed.